Uncanny Valley | WIRED How China Is Hoping to Attract Tech Talent
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Oct 9, 2025 Zeyi Yang, a senior writer for WIRED focused on Chinese tech, joins to discuss the fallout from the new $100,000 fee on H-1B visas. The conversation highlights how this chaos drives tech talent to seek opportunities in China, especially with the introduction of a new talent visa. Zeyi shares insights on the challenges foreign workers face, China's flexible visa options, and the cultural hurdles newcomers may encounter. They also explore the implications for the U.S.-China tech competition and how these changes may reshape the future of innovation.
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Panic Flight After Fee Announcement
- Shayoun saw the $100,000 H-1B fee announcement while landing and panicked within hours.
- She immediately changed plans and flew back to the U.S. through Shanghai to avoid potential costs.
H-1B Has Become Two Programs
- The H-1B program serves both elite researchers and lower-paid IT-contract roles.
- Critics argue some firms exploit the visa for jobs Americans could fill, creating a two-tier system.
Avoid Travel During Visa Uncertainty
- Expect short-term travel and financial disruption if immigration rules change suddenly.
- Consult immigration counsel before travel and avoid nonessential trips during policy uncertainty.